People with breast cancer face many difficult decisions about their medical care. There are many SUPPORT organizations out there to help them through that process – from finding wigs, to providing prosthetic breasts to helping fund reconstructive surgery. The list of organizations today focuses on getting people help who need it now to fight breast cancer or to cope with the effects of chemotherapy and radiation, which are often the only treatment options for breast cancer.
Organizations that support people (and their loved ones) with breast cancer:
Avon Breast Cancer Crusade (both research and support) – The Avon Breast Cancer Crusade was launched in 1992 as a small pioneering program in the U.K. Avon in the U.S. adopted the Crusade the following year. Over the last 18 years, Avon philanthropy has raised and donated more than $700 million to breast cancer programs around the world, supporting cutting-edge research to find a cure for or prevent breast cancer as well as programs that enable all patients to access quality care. Funding supports awareness and education: screening and diagnosis; access to treatment; support services; and scientific research. Beneficiaries of the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade range from leading cancer research and clinical centers to community-based, non-profit breast health education programs.
Kohl’s Cares Supporting Women’s Health (both research and support) – As part of our commitment to fight breast cancer in Wisconsin, Kohl’s will donate more than $7 million over the next three years to the American Cancer Society’s Midwest division and the Southeastern WI affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®.
- Kohl’s partnership with the American Cancer Society’s Midwest division will focus on educating women about breast health care. Specifically, program elements include development and distribution of a breast health kit containing resources to reduce risk and manage treatment; funding of new health care positions and programs to educate and provide assistance throughout our communities; research funding; and event sponsorship.
- Kohl’s partnership with the Southeastern WI affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® is aimed at increasing breast health screenings through a grassroots based education program; a marketing campaign designed to incite women to take action; financial assistance for those unable to pay for a mammogram and event sponsorship.
Susan G. Komen for the Cure (both research and support)- Susan G. Komen fought breast cancer with her heart, body and soul. Throughout her diagnosis, treatments, and endless days in the hospital, she spent her time thinking of ways to make life better for other women battling breast cancer instead of worrying about her own situation. That concern for others continued even as Susan neared the end of her fight. Moved by Susan’s compassion for others and committed to making a difference, Nancy G. Brinker promised her sister that she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. That promise is now Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, the global leader of the breast cancer movement, having invested more than $1.9 billion since inception in 1982. As the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists, we’re working together to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. Thanks to events like the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® and the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure®, and generous contributions from our partners, sponsors and fellow supporters, we have become the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer in the world.
Ellen Hermanson Foundation – The Ellen Hermanson Foundation was established in 1997 to honor the memory of Ellen Hermanson and carry on the important work to which she devoted so much of her time and energy. An activist and an advocate, Ellen channeled her journalistic talents to become a forceful voice for breast cancer patients and their families. She educated her readers about the importance of early detection, the challenges of living with breast cancer, the very real, but little-discussed or understood, issue of pain management, and the debilitating effects of breast cancer on the entire family. (support)
Women at Risk – Women At Risk (WAR®) is the Breast Cancer Program at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center, whose mission is to enhance the lives of women who are at high risk for the development of breast cancer and women with breast cancer through research, education and support. (In some articles, a specific fund is mentioned – Kevin Morrissey Fund). (both research and support)
American Cancer Society – Although they address many types of cancer, breast cancer is one of the most highlighted through this group. (both research and support)
The Rose – The Rose is the Houston area’s leading 501(c)(3) non-profit breast cancer organization providing mammography screening, diagnosis, access to treatment and support to all women regardless of their ability to pay. Last year, The Rose provided 33,784 screening and diagnostic procedures for those able to pay; 19,369 screening and diagnostic procedures at no charge to low income, uninsured women; 8,857 free patient navigation services to patients without insurance.
National Breast Cancer Foundation – The National Breast Cancer Foundation’s mission is to save lives by increasing awareness of breast cancer through education and by providing mammograms for those in need. NBCF accomplishes this mission through various initiatives. NBCF programs provide women help for today and hope for tomorrow.
Young Survival Coalition – Young Survival Coalition (YSC) is the premier global organization dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. YSC offers resources, connections and outreach so women feel supported, empowered and hopeful.
Breast Cancer Resource Center, Santa Barbara – The Breast Cancer Resource Center of Santa Barbara is committed to serve as a community resource center; act as an informational clearinghouse, and provide free educational and support services for all who are concerned about breast cancer and breast health.
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